The world is full of self-important, self-absorbed, and self-promoting people.  I prefer humble people.  They are truly a breath of fresh air when I meet them.

Humility seems to be a virtue that is losing ground in today’s world.  Humble people do not make for good TV.  The media prefers to make the bold and the brash the lead story.  These are the people who make the headlines.

The bravado superstars show on Sportscenter or CEO’s demonstrate on MSNBC or Fox News makes for good ratings.  I just don’t think it makes for very good people.

What’s Not To Like?

Six Reasons I Like Humble People

1.  The Humble Are Rare

It is ironic that people today spend so much time declaring they are unique.  They want to stand out in a crowd and be noticed.  Unfortunately that is becoming a majority.  Humility is truly unique. It is the humble who stand out.  When I find a humble person, I know I have found someone special.

2.  The Humble Are Selfless

Self-important, self-absorbed, and self-promoting.  When you put your self first, this is what you become.  The humble put others before themselves.  Being selfless doesn’t mean you think less of yourself.  It just means you think of yourself less.

3.  The Humble Are Confident

You can be humble and confident simultaneously.  But, arrogance and humility are always in opposition.  While an arrogant person is often preoccupied with promoting his capabilities, a confident person does not need other people to know they are capable.

4.  The Humble Admit Mistakes

It takes humility to admit when you blew it.  The humble do not see the need to be perfect, because they already know perfection is impossible.  They see themselves realistically. Therefore, admitting mistakes does not damage their ego.

5.  The Humble Show Maturity

Some people are naturally humble. Some people gain humility through experience.  Either way, humility is a sign of maturity.  How mature is a petulant child who needs everyone’s attention?  Now compare the humility of aging sport stars versus the people they were during their playing days.  Lack of humility is a sign of immaturity.

6.  The Humble Are Good Listeners

The humble are very comfortable learning about others and demonstrating the lost art of listening. They do not always dominate the conversation with stories about their own accomplishments or their children’s accomplishments.  The humble always tend to make others feel important instead of making themselves feel that way.  They do that by listening.

The Bottom Line:

I think the world believes humility is a sign of weakness.  The strongest people I know exude humility.  I like being around them because they are not concerned about their position.  They are not concerned about getting the spot light.  They are concerned about what is important.

Humility is a character trait we should all aspire to.

Think about it.  If I told you I wanted you to meet a unique person who was selfless, confident, able to admit mistakes, mature and a good listener, doesn’t that sound like someone we would all want to spend time with?

Question:

Have you ever been around a truly humble person you didn’t appreciate?  Have you ever been around an arrogant person you didn’t appreciate?